However, until the four-star, Rivals250 standout signs a binding letter-of-intent, nothing is anything close to finalized.

Just ask Jones, who said Tuesday night that he "for sure" plans to visit Ole Miss sometime between now and the start of the signing period in February.

"They're just telling me I can come in and play as a freshman," Jones said. "My friend, Jeff Scott, is committed there and he's talking about going there all the time."

Jones, a 6-foot-6, 230-pound athlete/defensive end from Miami (Palmetto), Fla., is one of two Tennessee commitments who appear to be giving the Rebels a long look. The other, fellow Miami native Ralph Williams, is likely visiting Ole Miss in early December with Scott. Jones could make that trip as well. The trio, Jones said, are good friends.

"It'll have a little bit to do with it, but mostly, what will have a lot to do with it is early playing time," Jones said. "One of my coaches, Jorge Baez, used to work at Palmetto, and he's at Ole Miss now (as an administrative intern). That could have a lot to do with it."

Earlier this month, Jones told Rivals.com affiliate HuskersIllustrated.com that Arkansas and Ole Miss "probably have the defenses I'd bet fit into." Additionally, he said the two coaches he had the best relationship with are Ole Miss cornerbacks coach/recruiting coordinator Chris Vaughn and Tennessee running backs coach Eddie Gran.

Jones said Tuesday he's planning to visit Ole Miss, Alabama and Arkansas. Additionally, he definitely plans to take an official visit to Tennessee. He's also considering a trip to Nebraska.

"As of right now, I'm still committed to them, but anything could change between now and signing day," Jones said.

Asked how the Volunteers' staff feels about his intent to visit other Southeastern Conference schools, Jones said: "They just say it's up to me and things like that."

Jones has 60 tackles and 15 sacks so far this season. His team plays its regular-season finale on Thursday night. Then the focus will shift to recruiting. Jones said he wants to have a final decision made sometime in December.

On Saturday, Jones said he'll be tuned in with interest when Tennessee travels to Ole Miss for an 11 a.m. CST kickoff on CBS.

"It doesn't matter who wins," Jones said. "I just want to see where I fit in best."